William graduated from Escanaba High School, joined the U.S. Navy at age 17 and served in World War II. After an honorable discharge, he went on to further his education at the University of Michigan, Western Michigan University and Northwestern University. Bill married Joyce Elaine Dupont on Sept. 7, 1951, in Escanaba. Bill was a talented saxophone player and the vice president of finance for Chicago and North Western Railroad at the time of his retirement December 1987.

A Celebration of Bill’s life will be held in the spring, followed by the inurnment at Lake View Cemetery. An announcement will be placed in the newspaper for updated service information at that time. Please view and sign the online guest book at www.burnhamours.com.

Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Chetek has been entrusted with arrangements.